THE IMPACT OF RELIGIOUS INVOLVEMENT ON DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS AMONG YOUNG ADULTS

Abstract

The relationship between religious involvement and mental health has been a significant area of study, particularly in understanding its impact on depressive symptoms among young adults. This research examines the role of religious importance and prayer frequency in influencing depression levels, using data from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health). The findings indicate that individuals who place greater importance on religion report lower levels of depression, whereas frequent prayer is positively associated with depressive symptoms, suggesting it may serve as a coping mechanism rather than a protective factor. Additionally, health status, educational attainment, household income, and parental education levels emerged as significant predictors of depression, highlighting the multifaceted nature of mental health determinants. Gender differences were also observed, with females reporting higher levels of depression and greater religious engagement than males. Despite limitations such as low explained variance and potential self-report biases, this study underscores the complex interactions between religious involvement and mental health, suggesting that both religious and secular interventions should be considered in addressing depression among young adults.